Beaufort County Community College celebrated the graduation of 24 Barber Academy students on June 11, 2026, marking another milestone for a program that continues to grow its footprint across the region. These students completed 1,500 hours of training.
Jason Bennett, Herman Branch, Makeba Dudley, Nikeya Edwards, Detric Everett, Maurice Gooding, Terrance Grimes, Amayo Harris, Damien Hughey, Camden Jackson, Gabriel Jimenez, Shyheim Manning, Jada Marks, Bryson Mascarenhas, Enya Moore, Elvis Morales-Monter, Derek Paige, Javaree Perkins, Marquis Pitman, James Sherman, Tanner Tyer, William Wainwright, Armani Watson, and Uriel Vazquez Alvarez each completed more than 1,500 hours of training to qualify for licensure.
Graduates Are Already Making Their Mark
The program’s impact is visible across the Washington area. Graduates from the previous class, Kyle Hardee and Ricky Beacham-Dunlop, have opened their own barbershops, while others have gone on to work throughout the local industry.
Evening program instructor Russell Shaw offered this challenge to the graduating class: “The it factor for a barber, it can be fashion or trending cuts, but let it be your work ethic; let it be your showing up; let it be your staying there when the money isn’t there. That’s what causes someone to be influential. That’s what causes impact.”
About the Program
The Barber Academy provides students with both theoretical instruction and hands-on practical experience. Training covers a wide range of barbering techniques, from classic cuts to modern styles, alongside the business skills needed to thrive in the industry. The program also places a strong emphasis on hygiene, safety, and customer service.
Two sessions are scheduled for those interested in joining the program:
Daytime session: August 3 through December 1, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Evening session: September 8 through April 4, 5 to 9 p.m.
The Barber Academy qualifies for the Beaufort Promise Scholarship, which covers the registration fee for eligible students. Prospective students can learn more and apply at beaufortccc.edu/barber.
Visit the Barber Academy Barbershop
The Barber Academy barbershop is open to the public at 238 W. Main St. in Washington, NC. Both appointments and walk-ins are welcome.
Hours:
- Monday: 6 to 9 p.m.
- Tuesday through Thursday: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. (closed noon to 1 p.m. and 5 to 6 p.m.)
- Friday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (closed noon to 1 p.m.)
For more information, call (252) 940-6480 or email [email protected].